Moncalieri Castle
[1] The first structure was a fortress built by Thomas I of Savoy around 1100 on a hill, to command the main southern access to Turin.Architect Carlo di Castellamonte enlarged the construction substantially, and the interiors were redesigned by him and other local artists.King Victor Emmanuel II preferred it to the Royal Palace of Turin, and had numerous apartments furnished according to his tastes.In 1849, it was from this palace that emerged the famous Proclamation of Moncalieri, written by Massimo d'Azeglio and signed by the King.The current structure of the castle is in the shape of a horseshoe facing south, with four massive square towers at each angle.